Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies

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If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings joy and color to your dessert table, look no further than these Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies. Inspired by childhood memories and those joyful moments celebrating with friends and family, these soft and chewy cookies are guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. With a buttery dough that’s vibrant and packed with rainbow nonpareils, these cookies are perfect for birthday parties, special occasions, or just a fun baking day at home. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to whip these up again and again!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something inherently cheerful about rainbow cookies. They add a splash of color to any gathering and evoke feelings of nostalgia that remind us of carefree childhood days. The combination of a soft buttery texture and the crunch of nonpareils creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to make! With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, anyone can bake these beautiful cookies that not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any platter.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup salted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon almond extract or vanilla extract
• 1 cup rainbow nonpareils

How To Make Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and are perfectly golden when they come out of the oven. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking soda. This combination helps to create tender cookies with a nice texture. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. The creaming process is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, creating a nice rise and a soft interior.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Extract

Once your butter and sugar mixture is fluffy, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in the almond or vanilla extract. This adds a lovely aromatic flavor that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 6: Fold in the Rainbow Nonpareils

Using a spatula, gently fold in the rainbow nonpareils until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is what gives the cookies their color and festive appeal!

Step 7: Scoop and Shape

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These cookies will spread a little during baking, so give them some room.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will set as they cool, resulting in soft, chewy cookies.

Step 9: Cool

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them maintain their shape and texture.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• If you prefer a deeper flavor, try using vanilla extract instead of almond extract, or even a combination of both!
• For a chewier texture, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Experiment with different sprinkles like chocolate chips or seasonal themed sprinkles for special occasions.

Variations and Customizations

• Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor and a different texture.
• Try using different flavored extracts like coconut or citrus to change up the flavor profile.
• Make these cookies festive by adding themed sprinkles for holidays like Christmas, Halloween, or Valentine’s Day.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your rainbow sprinkle cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying!

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sprinkle?

Yes! Feel free to use any type of sprinkle you like, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor variation.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is overly sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and shape.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, or freeze it for up to three months before baking.

Why do you use cornstarch in the recipe?

Cornstarch helps to create a softer texture in the cookies by reducing the protein content of the flour mixture, resulting in a more tender cookie.

Conclusion

Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies are a fantastic way to brighten up any day with their color and delightful flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, these cookies are simple to make and will impress anyone who takes a bite. With their soft texture and buttery taste, they perfectly combine your favorite childhood memories with the joys of baking. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner baker, and create your own batch of happy, colorful rainbow sprinkle cookies today!

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